Total 246 Others level Human Resources job vacancies in Preston, PR1 7LY

Retail Stock Counter

Salary: £12.89 per hour inclusive of holiday pay (£11.50 per hour + £1.39 holiday pay)

Location: Preston

*Access to wages from 3 days after shift completion*Free Transport*Immediate Start*Holiday Pay*

Retail Asset Solutions are looking to take on Retail Stock Counters to join our already existing minibus teams.

The Company

• We are a leading provider of Retail stocktaking, merchandising and supply chain management services.
• With over 3500 employees throughout the UK, we provide a hardworking and rewarding workplace with many progression opportunities.

The Role

• We are looking for Retail stock counters to add to our already successful team.
• Work will be carried out on different Retail customer sites and stores and travel will vary on a shift-by-shift basis. All travel is provided on the minibus.
• You will be responsible for ensuring stock is counted quickly and accurately using a handheld scanner.
• Being able to stand for prolonged periods of time is needed for the role and access equipment may have to be used on occasion to reach high stock
• Typical working week will consist of 3-4 x 8-12hr shifts

Key Skills/ Experience Required

• Due to the nature of our work, you must be able to work unsociable hours including early mornings and during the night when required. As a result, we can only accept applicants 18 years and over
• You must have a 'can do' attitude and be able to work long shifts where required on large counts.
• With our innovative business, the technology changes and therefore being a quick learner is a key skill required.
• Any experience of handling stock is an advantage but not a necessity.

The Package/ Benefits

• Colleagues will be offered a benefit called Wagestream, which enables colleagues to track, save and access up to 50% of their wages prior to pay day. Wagestream also offers financial advice, all contributing to the financial wellbeing of RAS colleagues
• Free Transport
• Progression Opportunities
• Generous Holiday Pay
• Pension Contribution

Retail & Asset Solutions are hiring NOW with immediate starts available.

If you think you are suitable for this position and you want to find out more, please apply today!

This role is being handled by Retail & Asset Solutions (RAS). To discuss this vacancy or any other great positions we have please call us on 01689 879444 for a confidential chat about working for our business.

By applying to this role, you are consenting to Retail & Asset Solutions to hold and process your data in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulations. If you have any questions or wish to exercise your right to access, erase or restrict the holding or processing of your data then please contact us at applications@retailassetsolutions.com and we will respond to your query as soon as possible.

Retail Stock Count Assistant

Salary: £12.89 per hour inclusive of holiday pay (£11.50 per hour + £1.39 holiday pay)

Location: Preston

*Access to wages from 3 days after shift completion*Free Transport*Immediate Start*Holiday Pay*

Retail Asset Solutions are looking to take on Retail Stock Count Assistants to join our already existing minibus teams.

The Company

• We are a leading provider of Retail stocktaking, merchandising and supply chain management services.
• With over 3500 employees throughout the UK, we provide a hardworking and rewarding workplace with many progression opportunities.

The Role

• We are looking for Retail stock counters to add to our already successful team.
• Work will be carried out on different Retail customer sites and stores and travel will vary on a shift-by-shift basis. All travel is provided on the minibus.
• You will be responsible for ensuring stock is counted quickly and accurately using a handheld scanner.
• Being able to stand for prolonged periods of time is needed for the role and access equipment may have to be used on occasion to reach high stock
• Typical working week will consist of 3-4 x 8-12hr shifts

Key Skills/ Experience Required

• Due to the nature of our work, you must be able to work unsociable hours including early mornings and during the night when required. As a result, we can only accept applicants 18 years and over
• You must have a 'can do' attitude and be able to work long shifts where required on large counts.
• With our innovative business, the technology changes and therefore being a quick learner is a key skill required.
• Any experience of handling stock is an advantage but not a necessity.

The Package/ Benefits

• Colleagues will be offered a benefit called Wagestream, which enables colleagues to track, save and access up to 50% of their wages prior to pay day. Wagestream also offers financial advice, all contributing to the financial wellbeing of RAS colleagues
• Free Transport
• Progression Opportunities
• Generous Holiday Pay
• Pension Contribution

Retail & Asset Solutions are hiring NOW with immediate starts available.

If you think you are suitable for this position and you want to find out more, please apply today!

This role is being handled by Retail & Asset Solutions (RAS). To discuss this vacancy or any other great positions we have please call us on 01689 879444 for a confidential chat about working for our business.

By applying to this role, you are consenting to Retail & Asset Solutions to hold and process your data in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulations. If you have any questions or wish to exercise your right to access, erase or restrict the holding or processing of your data then please contact us at applications@retailassetsolutions.com and we will respond to your query as soon as possible.

Your new company
This small family run surveying business, based in Preston, is currently looking to expand and welcome a Business Administrator to join the team. They have been established for a number of years, and are seeking a Business Administrator to contribute to the daily functioning of the business. This will be on a full or part-time, permanent basis and there is an opportunity for flexible working hours and days dependent on the candidate and business needs.
Your new role

• Managing and organising an inbox, ensuring emails are distributed and actioned according.
• Updating and maintaining the company database and client information.
• Assisting will all aspects of administration to ensure a smooth running of the business.
• Diary management, organising files and taking general queries via email and phone.
• Processing invoices using Xero.
• Ensuring files and compliance is maintained.
• Utilising excellent communication, both written and verbal.

What you'll need to succeed

• Excellent organisation and attention to detail.
• Previous experience working within administration is essential.
• Ability to commute to Preston one day per week.
• Working off your own initiative.
• Proficient with Microsoft Packages and inhouse systems.
• An understanding of Xero and previous experience of bookkeeping would be desirable but not essential.

What you'll get in return

• £26,000 or pro rata depending on hours agreed.
• Full training and support throughout the induction period.
• Hybrid working with one day in the office per week.
• Between 20-40 hours per week, depending on the successful candidate.
• Opportunity to join a small expanding business.

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Your new company
Hays Education, the leading recruitment experts, are looking for qualified teachers interested in primary supply teaching jobs in Preston, Blackpool, Blackburn and surrounding areas of Lancashire. We require primary teachers throughout the area for both day-to-day supply cover and long-term cover for our partnership schools. The summer term was increasingly busy, especially within Early Years and KS1. Due to this and the demanding period coming up in the autumn term, we are looking for primary teachers to take up the multiple positions we have available immediately across all year groups. These ad hoc supply placements can often lead to permanent positions.
Your new role
As a supply teacher, you can choose between working day-to-day, or working on longer-term contracts (where available). Hays have experienced huge growth in demand this past year, so we have plenty of roles in each category for you to choose from. As a supply teacher, you will use your curriculum knowledge and expertise to deliver engaging lessons across the national curriculum. The ability to manage behaviour and make an instant impact is essential. Once registered with Hays, you will gain ongoing support from a Hays Education consultant, who will seek roles on your behalf, based on your chosen criteria.
What you'll need to succeed
To register with Hays, you must be passionate and driven, with a strong desire to be a successful teacher.
To register as a teacher, you must meet the below core criteria:

• A minimum of 2 months' teaching experience in the past 2 years (this can include university placements).
• You must have the right to work in the UK.
• You must have a PGCE or QTS
  
  If you don't have a PGCE, QTS or recent teaching experience, you can register as a Teaching Assistant, provided you have worked with children for 1 month in the past 2 years.
  
  We welcome applicants who are currently working for other agencies.
  
  
  

What you'll get in return
As a Hays Supply Teacher, you will receive a generous rate of pay (dependent on experience). Other benefits include holiday pay and access to our exclusive e-learning platform, where you can complete safeguarding and other courses to aid in your development.
Upon application, a Hays specialist recruitment consultant will be in touch to guide you through the registration process.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Your new company
This secondary school is based in the Preston (PR1) area and they have approached Hays seeking an English Teacher to start ASAP and continue until the end of the academic year. This school is easily accessible and has a well established English department with excellent facilities and significant support. They are well respected locally and pride themselves on their supportive and high-achieving English Department.
Your new role
Joining this English department, you will be responsible for teaching English across KS3 and KS4. You will work closely with other department colleagues developing resources and lesson planning as a team. You will plan and prepare lessons, deliver these, creating a positive learning environment, and you will also mark and assess pupils' work. Due to this being a long-term assignment, you will be required to attend parents' evenings and additional school functions.
What you'll need to succeed
In order to be successful in securing this position, you must possess Qualified Teacher Status and have experience teaching English across KS3 and KS4. You will be available immediately and able to commit through until the end of the academic year.
What you'll get in return
In return, you will be paid to scale from day one of the assignment and will be joining a well established department where you will have the opportunity to further develop your own skills and experience. You will also gain access to the Hays Hub and Training platform.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Your new company
Hays is Lancashire's premier teaching agency, recruiting to over 80% of schools in the region. We offer a wide range of staffing solutions to local secondary schools, including day-to-day supply, long-term cover, and permanent appointments. Our network of partnership schools trust our market expertise, and many use us as their exclusive recruitment partner, meaning we have consistent work available all year round. If you're an experienced teacher seeking your next challenge, or an NQT hoping to gain crucial classroom experience, then Hays is the agency for you.
Your new role
Upon registration with Hays, you will have the option of working on day-to-day assignments or long-term placements, making supply a flexible employment option for those with other commitments. As a Hays Supply Teacher, you can pick and choose your days and decline roles which aren't right for you. You can choose to work for us full-time, part-time or flexibly.

We work with schools in Blackburn, Darwen, Accrington, Clitheroe, Rossendale, Burnley, Colne and Nelson so wherever you live, we have roles available for you. It is commonplace for long-term supply roles to result in permanent job offers, making supply a brilliant way of showcasing your talent to local schools. As a Hays Supply Teacher, you will receive a generous daily rate of pay and a range of other benefits.
What you'll need to succeed
To register with Hays, you must be passionate and driven, with a strong desire to be a successful teacher. To register as a teacher, you must meet the below core criteria

• A minimum of 2 months' teaching experience in the past 4 years (this can include university placements).
• You must have the right to work in the UK.
• You must have a PGCE, QTS or QTLS

If you don't have a PGCE, QTS, QTLS or recent teaching experience, you can register as a Teaching Assistant or cover supervisor, provided you have worked with children for 1 month in the past 4 years.
We welcome applicants who are currently working for other agencies.
What you'll get in return
As a Hays Supply Teacher, you will receive a generous rate of pay (dependent on experience). Other benefits include holiday pay and access to our exclusive e-learning platform, where you can complete safeguarding and other courses to aid in your development.

Upon application, a Hays specialist recruitment consultant will be in touch to guide you through the registration process.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Your new company
Hays is Lancashire's premier teaching agency, recruiting to over 80% of schools in the region. We offer a wide range of staffing solutions to local secondary schools, including day-to-day supply, long-term cover, and permanent appointments. Our network of partnership schools trust our market expertise, and many use us as their exclusive recruitment partner, meaning we have consistent work available all year round. If you're an experienced teacher seeking your next challenge, or an NQT hoping to gain crucial classroom experience, then Hays is the agency for you.
Your new role
Upon registration with Hays, you will have the option of working on day-to-day assignments or long-term placements, making supply a flexible employment option for those with other commitments. As a Hays Supply Teacher, you can pick and choose your days and decline roles which aren't right for you. You can choose to work for us full-time, part-time, or flexibly.

We work with schools in Wigan, Leigh, Skelmersdale, Chorley, Ormskirk, Burscough, Atherton, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Lowton, and other surrounding areas so wherever you live, we have roles available for you. It is commonplace for long-term supply roles to result in permanent job offers, making supply a brilliant way of showcasing your talent to local schools. As a Hays Supply Teacher, you will receive a generous daily rate of pay and a range of other benefits.
What you'll need to succeed
To register with Hays, you must be passionate and driven, with a strong desire to be a successful teacher. To register as a teacher, you must meet the below core criteria:

• A minimum of 2 months' teaching experience in the past 4 years (this can include university placements).
• You must have the right to work in the UK.
• You must have a PGCE, QTS or QTLS

If you don't have a PGCE, QTS, QTLS or recent teaching experience, you can register as a Teaching Assistant or cover supervisor, provided you have worked with children for 1 month in the past 4 years
We welcome applicants who are currently working for other agencies.
What you'll get in return
As a Hays Supply Teacher, you will receive a generous rate of pay (dependent on experience). Other benefits include holiday pay and access to our exclusive e-learning platform, where you can complete safeguarding and other courses to aid in your development.
Upon application, a Hays specialist recruitment consultant will be in touch to guide you through the registration process.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Your new company
Since the return from half-term, Hays Education have been inundated with Teaching Assistant roles to start immediately in primary schools across Wigan. These roles are on a temporary and long-term basis, with the potential for these roles to be permanent for the right candidate. These schools are mainstream schools, and they do have some SEN needs within their classes, this is across both KS1 and KS2.
These schools are looking for someone to provide general support in the classroom, as well as being supported by a dedicated team of staff and the class teacher.
Your new role
You will be responsible for providing support and assistance to different classroom teachers with the delivery of curriculum, as well as supporting the pupils in both group and 1:1 settings across the KS1 and KS2 year groups. You will be required to hold interventions for maths, reading, writing and phonics, so it would be beneficial if you have experience with these. Some of these schools will include SEN pupils, so any experience here would be beneficial. We will always strive to meet your requirements and assign you to the particular year group of your choice however, you may be expected to move round within the school, so being flexible would be a key skill.
What you'll need to succeed
In order to be successful in securing this position, you must possess recent experience working with children, ideally in an education setting. As the schools are recruiting immediately, it would be ideal if you can jump straight into the role, however, do not let this put you off applying, as we are always receiving new roles. SEN experience would also be desirable in this role, however it is not essential as it will depend on the school you are placed in.
What you'll get in return
In return, you will be paid a highly competitive daily rate and will be working in this successful school where you will become an integral part of a welcoming team of TA's. You will therefore have the opportunity to further develop your own teaching assistant skills and experience. A dedicated consultant will always be on hand should you have any questions or concerns.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Your new company
Join the fast-paced Financial Planning and Accounting team of a public-sector organisation as they go through continued growth. They are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds to contribute to their ongoing growth and development.

Your new role
As a Finance Business Partner, you will work closely with the senior stakeholders, providing influential financial insights to support operational and tactical decision-making. You will be a key member of the Leadership Team, ensuring that financial considerations are integrated into all strategic decisions. Your responsibilities will include appraising business cases, ensuring adherence to financial regulations, and presenting financial plans and performance analyses. You will also support monthly management accounts, annual budgets, and quarterly forecasting processes, while managing and developing an Associate Finance Business Partner.

What you'll need to succeed
To be successful in this role, you will need a strong track record in management reporting and financial analysis, with experience in complex, multidisciplinary environments. You should be a fully qualified member of a professional accounting body (ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent) and possess excellent communication skills to influence and challenge senior managers. Proficiency in financial information systems, advanced spreadsheet and data analysis skills, and the ability to manage and mentor staff are essential.

What you'll get in return
In return, you will receive a salary up to £57K, and a benefits package which includes 30 days of holiday plus additional time off at Christmas and a generous pension scheme. You will have the opportunity to work in a hybrid environment, balancing time between the office and remote work. This role offers a chance to make a significant impact on the organisation, contributing to its financial stability and strategic growth. Additionally, you will benefit from ongoing professional development and the opportunity to work in a sector that is both challenging and rewarding.

What you need to do now


If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Mobile Warehouse Stock Checker - Preston - £24,082

Own Car is Required

The position

• This full-time permanent position,you will be responsible for driving around the region based in and around Preston to complete audits on deliveries.
• Rate of pay: £24,082 per annum
• Weekly hours: 37.5 hours plus 30 min unpaid break
• Shift patterns 5 days out of 7 days, shifts between 6am-2pm, 2pm-10pm, 10pm-6am
• Working Environment: Ambient
• Full Driving License and access to your own transport is essential

A day in the life of a Warehouse Stock Operative

As a Mobile Accuracy Checker, you will work as part of a dynamic and supportive team in what can be described as a fast-paced and target driven environment to ensure the stock entering our customer store is accurate.

Job activities

• Audit the Inbound accuracy of multiple supplier deliveries at customer store level.
• Audit Picker accuracy of stock arriving at stores and fully investigate all errors found.
• Adhere to agreed audit and error verification procedures at all times.
• Maintain integrity at all times.
• Ensure the expected productivity levels are achieved, in line with customer expectations.
• Review daily targets in line with customer expectations.

RAS Benefits

• Flexible working shifts patterns - based around the store delivery window
• Competitive salary with optional pension scheme
• Free onsite parking
• Full training to help you perform at your best
• Recognition Awards and Incentives
• Genuine career progression
• Refer a friend bonus

Job specifics

• Able to actively respond to both verbal instructions and audible warning devices
• The ability to communicate well, both written and verbally.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Word.
• You will be confident in their ability to add and subtract without the use of a calculator.
• Full Driving License and access to your own transport
• All work may require prolonged periods of standing and all employees will be required to kneel, bend and squat in order to access and work with low and ground level stock.

This role is being handled by Retail & Asset Solutions (RAS). To discuss this vacancy or any other great positions we have please call us on 01689 879444 for a confidential chat about working for our business.

By applying to this role, you are consenting to Retail & Asset Solutions to hold and process your data in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulations. If you have any questions or wish to exercise your right to access, erase or restrict the holding or processing of your data then please contact us at applications@retailassetsolutions.com and we will respond to your query as soon as possible.

Your new company
Join a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation based in Lancashire, renowned for its commitment to excellence and innovation. This company offers a supportive and collaborative environment where your skills and expertise will be highly valued.
Your new role
As a Management Accountant, you will play a crucial role in the financial management and strategic planning of the company. Your responsibilities will include preparing financial statements, managing budgets, conducting financial analysis, and providing insights to support decision-making processes. You will work closely with various departments to ensure financial efficiency and compliance with regulations.
What you'll need to succeed
To be successful in this role, you will need to be a part-qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with proven experience in management accounting. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate financial information effectively are essential. Proficiency in financial software and advanced Excel skills will be advantageous. A proactive approach and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team will be key to your success.
What you'll get in return
In return, you will receive a competitive salary and benefits package, along with opportunities for professional development and career progression. You will be part of a supportive team in a company that values work-life balance and fosters a positive working environment. This is an excellent opportunity to advance your career in a challenging and rewarding role.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

The Recruitment Co are currently recruiting for Production Operatives to work for an established, growing business in the Longridge area.

Salary: £11.70ph

Working hours are 39 hours per week (7am - 4pm Monday - Thursday, 7am - 11:50am Friday)

Duties will include setting up machinery and programme instructions,
operating machine looms that knit, weave and loop threads together, prepare fibres and make sure they are combed, cleaned and twisted into yarns, spin fibres and wind them onto bobbins or cones, monitor production and report any problems and do quality checks.

Applicants must have a good standard of reading ability due to systems used onsite and have experience in a similar warehouse / production role.

We will be required to attained 2 years of references.

If you require further information please contact 01253 751511.

The Recruitment Co are an equal opportunities employer.

CPBlackpoolother

Your new company
You will be working for a Lancashire based development and construction consultancy that has numerous offices in the North of England. They specialise in delivering multi-million pound new developments for social housing providers and regeneration projects for local authorities. Their other key sectors are healthcare, education, retail, student accomodation, commercial.
Your new role
The key purpose of the role is to assist in the provision of quantity surveying services under the direction of the Directors and senior staff.
Key responsibilities will include but not be limited to:
* You will comply with the clients internal quality assurance management procedures and governance;
* You will prepare estimates, cost plans, undertake interim valuations, cost reports and value for money reports;
* You will be responsible for the preparation of interim valuations, contract instructions and final accounts;
* Contract administration and cost control;
* Tender document preparation; Tender reporting;
What you'll need to succeed
You will have a BSc in Quantity Surveying and will have a minimum of 1 year's experience working as a QS for a consultancy or contractor.
What you'll get in return
Salary £30,000-£35,000
Professional fees paid and mentorship for your APC
Hybrid working

What you need to do now


If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

HR Advisor needed in Southampton Paying £18.06 per day ref 5256917

Full time hours on a temporary basis

Key Responsibilities:

1. Support HR Business Partners with HR and OD interventions to boost employee engagement and performance.

2. Provide HR support for employee relations queries and case work.

3. Contribute to workforce planning using data insights to enhance performance and productivity.

4. Support employee training, learning, and development.

5. Ensure efficient execution of processes in line with policies.

6. Assist with HR and OD projects to improve the HR service and make the organisation a great place to work.

7. Maintain good relationships with TU representatives to resolve disputes and ensure effective outcomes.

8. Offer professional HR and OD advice to managers in line with the Workforce Strategy.

If you are interested in the role, please email your CV to verity@essentialemploy.co.uk quoting the reference number.

Essential Employment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy. Essential Employment is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

All our roles may be subject to pre-employment checks including references so please be prepared